Cafe LuLu

Cafe LuLu is like the neighborhood coffee shop that's just around the corner. The owner, Lulu, is dedicated to making her customers, whom she refers to as friends, a good cup of joe every day. With an atmosphere that feels like a comfortable living room and the strong aroma of fresh, gourmet coffee lingering in the air, Cafe LuLu is an all-around great place to enjoy a break.

Lulu has won a reputation for her place by brewing coffee beans that she roasts herself; her beans have won the praise of several coffee connoisseurs, as well. More than 80 beans varieties from all around the world are offered on the menu, and 70% of these beans are either "Rainforest Alliance" beans or have been certified by organizations like USDA and JASS, and imported through fair trade. Customers can choose how they want the beans roasted; a tiny roasting machine that weighs only one kilogram sits on the counter, ready to roast your beans however strong you want them, even if you are only asking for a small cup.

Some of the coffee types here include Hawaii Kona, Kilimanjaro, and Costa Rica. They also have a Japanese designer coffee pot, which adds a bit of texture to the coffee. For NT$150, you'll get bottomless coffee and you can try a different flavor without paying extra. Other specially-made coffees that are brewed in high-temperature, high-pressure coffee pots sell for NT$120 each. A second cup is half-price.

Delivered right from its place of origin, Panama Geisha is a bean brand that, at first sniff, smells like jasmine. During the first sip, you'll notice a slight tangerine flavor and a fruity aftertaste. If you're feeling a little hungry, make sure you get a slice of their handmade cake (NT$40) to go with your coffee.